Cocaine abuse will touch your life at some point. You may spot the symptoms of cocaine abuse in your best friend, a family member, or even you. It’s essential to know what the cocaine abuse symptoms are so that you are ready to help yourself or a loved one find cocaine addiction treatment. Reach out to the compassionate, experienced team at Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center online or by calling us at 781.587.3636 today to learn more about how we can be a part of your healing and recovery from cocaine addiction.
What Is Cocaine?
Cocaine is a commonly used illicit drug. It’s a central nervous system stimulant that boosts energy levels and keeps people awake by raising a user’s heart rate and increasing their blood pressure. This floods their brain with dopamine and makes them feel good and euphoric. Unfortunately, cocaine is highly addictive and can lead to a range of physical and psychological effects on users, as well as those around them.
There are two main types of cocaine:
- A white powder that is snorted, injected, or smoked
- A rock called crack cocaine that is generally smoked, although sometimes it is placed into body orifices
Cocaine is known by several different names, including:
- Coke
- Blow
- Snow
- Rock
- Crack
Because of the euphoria it delivers, cocaine is one of the most addictive drugs on the street today. Most users demonstrating the symptoms of cocaine abuse will require professional, long-term cocaine abuse treatment to quit using the drug and enjoy a successful lifelong recovery.
The 5 Cocaine Abuse Symptoms
Cocaine abuse can have debilitating consequences in the short term and cause permanent damage to those abusing the drug. Over time, physical disfiguration can occur, and cocaine also affects the nasal passages and the heart.
Over 40% of ER visits related to drug abuse involve cocaine. Deaths from cocaine overdose are on the rise. This makes it more important than ever to know the many cocaine abuse symptoms. Such signs range from physical to psychosocial.
Physical Cocaine Abuse Symptoms
- Dilated pupils
- Runny nose
- Rapid heat rate, high blood pressure, and rise in body temperature
- Loss of appetite, sudden weight loss
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Burn marks on the hands and lips
- White powder residue around the nose and mouth
- Lack of hygiene
Behavioral Symptoms of Cocaine Abuse
- Lying about whereabouts, associates, and activities
- Trying but failing to curtail one’s cocaine abuse
- Acting with increased energy
- Reckless and risky behaviors
- Borrowing or stealing money
Cognitive Cocaine Abuse Symptoms
- Poor decision-making
- Euphoria
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Psychosis
- An unusual boost in self-confidence
Psychosocial Symptoms of Cocaine Symptoms
- Anxiety and feelings of hopelessness
- Irritability
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Cravings
Environmental Cocaine Abuse Symptoms
- Changes in sleep habits or eating patterns
- Financial problems
- Decreased interest in favorite hobbies or passions with an increased demand for privacy
- Drug paraphernalia like spoons, razor blades, and plastic baggies
Cocaine doesn’t just impact a person’s physical well-being but all aspects of their lives. These additional symptoms of cocaine abuse are more subtle and personality-driven and may be more challenging to identify than those impacting a person’s appearance. Often, a person is masking deep-rooted pain and trauma with substance abuse; in such cases, it is equally important to seek mental health treatment.
Learn More at Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center
It may seem hopeless in the throes of drug abuse, but you can overcome your cocaine addiction with professional help. In our cocaine abuse treatment program, your body will heal, and you’ll learn how to live without cocaine. This is where your recovery journey begins. Contact us using our secure online form or call us confidentially at 781.587.3636 today. Let us help you achieve the cocaine-free life that you deserve.
